Galion BOE approves new conduct policy

Galion Board of Education members approved a new conduct code during Thursday night’s meeting.

The conduct code policy was revised to include parties where underage drinking or other illegal activities are taking place.

According to policy, the first offense requires offenders to take an alcohol and drug awareness course and additional offenses would lead to loss of one year eligibility in the sport or activity.

Board President Jennifer Kuns cast the lone dissenting vote.

“I do believe that a code of conduct is needed,” Kuns said. “(Galion Athletic Director Kyle) Baughn has put a lot of time and effort into it and I appreciate that. I do have a problem with one clause that states if a student-athlete is simply at a party and not partaking in an illegal activity they would be required to forfeit a year of eligibility or take an alcohol and (drug) treatment program. I don’t feel at that point that it would be the school’s job to mandate that. I believe that it should be the parents’ job if they aren’t participating in anything that is illegal.”

Baughn said he feels the policy is important.

“I totally understand her take,” he said. “They have to vote from the heart. The whole goal isn’t to punish. It’s to help. The first offense is an educational course and the dangers of drug and alcohol. We try to keep the youngsters from making those decisions. We are seeing that to much, to often. If it happens twice it’s more of an issue. Once is a mistake, twice a problem and third a pattern.”